Public procurement is a key sector of the EU economy accounting for about 16%
of GDP. Modernising and opening up procurement markets across borders –
including through the expansion of electronic procurement – is crucial to
Europe’s competitiveness and for creating new opportunities for EU businesses.

Using information technology appropriately can contribute to reducing costs,
improving efficiency and removing barriers to trade, which will ultimately
result in savings for taxpayers. The Directives adopted in March 2004 as part of
the public procurement legislative package
provide a legal framework aimed at boosting the development and use of
electronic procurement.

Public procurement is a key sector of the EU economy accounting for about 16 of GDP Modernising and opening up procurement markets across borders – including through the expansion of electronic procurement – is crucial to Europe’s competitiveness and for creating new opportunities for EU businesses